In ecology, what term is used for the division of niches among species?

The concept of resource partitioning refers to the way in which different species in the same ecological community divide resources in order to reduce competition. This can occur through various mechanisms, such as utilizing different food sources, occupying different habitats, or being active at different times of day. By adopting different niches, species can coexist more effectively without directly competing for the same resources, leading to greater biodiversity within the ecosystem.

Resource partitioning is essential for understanding how species maintain their populations despite overlapping needs. This strategy enables a variety of species to thrive in the same habitat, as it utilizes the available resources more efficiently and promotes a balanced ecosystem. The other terms mentioned do not specifically refer to this process of dividing niches among species, making resource partitioning the most accurate answer in this context.